Chester council applauds city workers for storm response
The worst weather seen in Chester in many years brought about the cancellation of the Feb. 16 meeting of the Chester City Council, which meant the agenda was packed for Monday's meeting.
Two aldermen were absent, Russ Rader and J.D. Maes. The gallery, however, had three candidates seeking election in April - aldermanic candidates Bob Buckham and Larry Bert, and treasurer candidate Dan Colvis.
Alderman Mike Blechle offered praise for all city departments over how well they performed during the severe winter storm. He singled out the work of the Street Department in clearing the foot of snow from city streets, and noted that the other departments pitched in heavily as well.
The council approved a $2,395.46 increase for Haier Plumbing and Heating Inc., which handled the trunk line sewer repair project, bringing Haier's total pay to $69,545.46.
Alderman Ray Allison objected, and asked City Engineer Harold Sheffer about the increase. Sheffer said the money was to pay the flaggers who directed traffic on Water Street as the trucks and equipment were moving about and disrupting the flow of traffic.
Allison asked why city employees were not used and Sheffer said the city has never used employees for flagging. Mayor Tom Page said that since this project has been completed, it's possible they can consider using employees as flaggers on future projects.
The council approved the increase with Allison dissenting.
The council also approved a request from Park Superintendent Billy Belton to buy rubber mulch for the swing set area at Cole Park. He said rubber mulch is more expensive than pea-gravel but worth it, as rubber mulch doesn't require installing timbers to encircle the area as the gravel would.
The cost of lumber is very high right now, Belton said.
Alderman Robert Platt asked if the rubber mulch is safe for children, which Belton answered affirmatively. He added many communities are using it with great success.
Other news
The council approved a request by City Clerk Bethany Berner to adjust the sewer bill for 103 Mullins Road. A building owned by the Baptist Church had a water line freeze and burst during the cold snap. The council deducted $61 from the sewer bill.
Police Chief Bobby Helmers said the new squad cars ordered in 2019 and 2020 will arrive to the dealerships next week, and will be delivered to the city soon after - fully outfitted and ready for duty. Meanwhile, the police department responded to 370 calls in February, Helmers said.
Mayor Page introduced Rick Harrington to the council, which ratified his appointment to the Police and Fire Commission.
Fire Chief Marty Bert said his department has had only 12 calls so far in all of 2021. He said the lull has allowed firefighters to update their CPR certifications and many of them have received their COVID-19 vaccines.
The council approved the second year agreement with Deb's Diner to provide concessions at the Cohen Complex.
The council ratified continuing use of the True RX Prescription Program for city employees, which is currently in use.